Peckwater Quadrangle

Peckwater Quadrangle is a large courtyard at Christ Church in Oxford with three matching sides and classical proportions. The southern side features a grand library building, while large windows open onto the space from all directions.

The quadrangle was built between 1706 and 1711 on the site of a medieval inn, which architects Henry Aldrich and William Townesend completely redesigned. This project turned the location into a Georgian educational complex that endures today.

The quadrangle shows early English neo-Palladian design and set standards for how academic buildings should look in the 1700s. Its classical style influenced many university buildings that came later across Britain.

Corner rooms on the upper floor provide students with extra living space that features oak-paneled walls and high ceilings. The quadrangle is best explored on foot and offers clear sightlines throughout.

In 1894 and 1927, the Bullingdon Club caused damage to windows and glass surfaces throughout the quadrangle. These incidents remain part of local lore and the stories people tell about the place.

Location: Oxford

Architects: Henry Aldrich, William Townesend

Architectural style: Palladian architecture

GPS coordinates: 51.75130,-1.25500

Latest update: December 10, 2025 20:06